Mateo Joseph has fuelled speculation over his future at Leeds United after hinting at a possible return to La Liga during a recent interview.
The 20-year-old forward, who joined Leeds from Espanyol B in the summer of 2022, has quickly endeared himself to fans and earned a starting spot under Daniel Farke at the start of the 2024/25 season.
Following his goal for Spain Under-21s in their 2-1 victory over Scotland on 6 September, Joseph was asked about the prospect of returning to his homeland.
Speaking to Onda Cero, and translated by Sport Witness, he said: “Spain is where I grew up and who knows if I’ll be able to return in the future.”
The comments have sparked concern among Leeds supporters, who fear the talented youngster could be eyeing a move away from Elland Road, just as he begins to cement his place in the side.
Last season, Joseph’s frustration grew as he struggled for game time, failing to start a single Championship match.
However, injuries to Patrick Bamford and Dan James, along with the departures of Crysencio Summerville and Georginio Rutter, have given him the chance to impress this term.
Joseph has seized the opportunity, scoring in a 2-0 win over Hull City and providing two assists in the 2-0 victory against Sheffield Wednesday.
Even the arrival of Joel Piroe in a £10 million deal from Swansea hasn’t dislodged Joseph, who appears to have earned the trust of manager Daniel Farke.
With Leeds United pushing for promotion back to the Premier League, Joseph is expected to play a crucial role in the campaign.
The prospect of the young Spaniard returning to La Liga would undoubtedly be a blow for the club, but it could also be a golden opportunity for him to make his mark on the international stage.